As you recall, the auto industry was in crisis.

WHITEHOUSE: Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event

And that's also why, while some folks, if you recall, were willing to let the auto industry go under -- you remember that?

WHITEHOUSE: Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event

Ford Motor (nyse: F - news - people) said today it will idle three auto-production plants because of its Firestone tire recall, taking 6, 000 workers off the production lines.

FORBES: News Scan P.M.

Ford has suffered in recent years from quality woes as well as an expensive tyre recall campaign for its Explorer SUV, causing the auto maker to sever its near-100 year long relationship with tyre-maker Firestone.

BBC: Lincoln Town Car

As he tries to turn around the auto giant from years of what many call bland design, an embarrassing 2009 recall and the effects of the 2011 earthquake, he is grabbing the wheel and playing the role of personal pitchman.

WSJ: Toyota Chief Akio Toyoda Grabs Wheel to Turn Around Humbled Auto Giant